I had heard good things about Los Angeles based Umami Burger and finally had the chance to see what the buzz was all about. I love that the multi-restaurant concept is based on the savory umami flavor found in many foods…and interesting was to bring this infamous Japanese flavor to the traditional meat patty.
The classic Umami burger was rich, juicy, sweet, salty, and definitely full of umami…probably the most melt-in-your-mouth burger I've ever had. The fat fries are the perfect blend of crispy and tender, while the pickle plate providing a tangy and refreshing palate cleanser in between every meaty bite. While the burgers are a bit smaller than I'd prefer, it's a happy and hearty meal I'd gladly enjoy any day. {Note to self: this is gonna be dangerous when I move to LA!}
Final thoughts…5 out of 5 happy ladies for a rich and savory version of an American classic.
{photos by Oh Joy}
One word…YUM!
Those chips look perfect: not too dark (i.e. fatty and overcooked), and that salt is making me drool.
those fries are huge and look rather delicious. as for the burger, i’m wishing for one right now!
Thanks for the tip I can’t wait to check it out!!!
their portobello mushroom burger is to die for!
5 out of 5!!! yipeeee!
j.
i’ve heard about this place on npr’s ‘good food’ on saturday morning’s on kcrw radio (joy – when you move to l.a. you will need this radio station!).
looks yummy!!
totally agree with victoria, kcrw (89.9) is one of my most favorite things about L.A.! as for umami burger, it’s going on our to-do list for sure. looks so delish!
Gah! I read about this in Vanity Fair and it’s been on my mind ever since. Next time I’m in LA for sure. PS – was in San Diego this past weekend and stopped by Con Pane for the salami sandwich before hitting the road to Julian for pie – thanks for the tip!
looks delish!! I love the pickle plate!
I had no idea you had a food blog! Those fries look gooood… I might make some tonight.
I don’t care if it’s only 10:30 am, those fried look amazing.
I’ve only heard great things about the Umami burger…It’s been on my list of places to try for a while, and your photos make it even more tempting!
Was there just a couple of weeks ago while teaching workshops. Shared the truffle burger with a friend…so so good!
I knew you would love this place! Next burger stop – you must try 8oz Burger Bar on Melrose. Deelish! Glad you enjoyed! 🙂
Umami burger would be good if the service was decent. The waiters at their la brea location act like it’s an inconvenience that there are customers.
I thought maybe it was just a bad night so I tried it again but got the same terrible service.
I recommend 8oz. burger bar {http://www.8ozburgerbar.com/} on melrose where there is great food, a full bar, sides big enough to share, and very friendly service.
Those fries are so awesome and delicious and like this rich burger yummi